Looking for a job has never been an easy process. I've been around it for almost twenty years now and it has grown even more sterile and impersonal in this short amount of time. The days of going through a few want ads, making calls and going in person to actually speak to a live person are all but gone. This process has been replaced by endless on line applications, directory trees (telephone tag) and black holes that suck in resumes and applications where they are never heard from again. I can assure you when it is you who is out of work, times are tough no matter the current rosy unemployment figures. The internet is great and all but for a job search has made a difficult situation worse. It is computer programs (ATS) that now decide if a resume warrants a second look by a person or even an interview. The job seeker is often unaware this happens or if they are aware, not sure what it wants. And let's not forget those left behind in this wonderful age of technology.
My state, North Carolina, is largely rural and poor. There are areas with poor or no on line access. Access is no good without knowing how to use the internet. Yet most employers and even the state unemployment system try to shoehorn everyone on line. It seems the schools are doing better at educating students on how to use the internet but where does this leave older workers who have never been on line? We are leaving our poorer residents further and further behind. But that's an entire discussion for another blog and time. And if you are internet savvy?
Welcome to the world of no calls, emails and black holes. Internet applications are long tedious affairs and no two are alike. Yes, there are s-called one click applications but how complete are they and do they even get looked at by actual people? Each application is it's own thing and most often take an hour or more to do. Then other than the occasional confirmation email, that's the last you hear about it. Try to follow up with a call? This may work or it may backfire because you did "not follow directions." Now do this day after day and month after month and see how you feel. It will not be good.
What can be done?
If you are the job seeker, get around people. Think about joining a networking group or volunteering somewhere. You are still useful and there are needs for your talents. Nothing beats real face to face connecting with others for finding work. Go to your library or local career center. Both places you can get more help and ideas than sitting at home in front of a computer. Care for yourself. Take breaks when you can. Do he stuff you have little time for while working. Know this too will pass.
If you are an HR professional be as accessible as you can. Meet applicants at job fairs and career centers. Know your population. If there is limited internet service or knowledge where you are have alternatives in place. Don't hide behind a directory tree, voicemail and a website. If an applicant is not the right person, let them know so they can move on. Be responsive and honest. Refer them somewhere else if you can. Saying "NO" is a part of the job. Do it professionally and offer an alternative if possible.
No, the internet is not going away. It is a wonderful tool. Learn to use it. Let's just humanize the job search process with it.
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